This sandwich uses sweet Hawaiian rolls and gooey Monterey Jack cheese. The rolls stay soft inside and get a crisp outside when you grill them. If you like fun grilled cheese twists, try a viral idea like the grilled cheese burrito recipe for more inspiration.
Why make this recipe
This Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese is fast, soft, and sweet-meets-savory. You get melty cheese and a soft roll that browns on the outside. It works for a quick lunch, snack, or party slider.
How to make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Make sure you have all ingredients ready. Work on one roll set at a time so the cheese melts well and the bread does not burn. For a light change, you can look at a flatbread idea like the cottage cheese flatbread recipe.
Ingredients :
- 4 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional: Sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon
Directions :
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half without cutting all the way through.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and butter the insides of each roll.
- Place the bottom halves of the rolls on the skillet and fill generously with cheese. Press down slightly with the top halves.
- Grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping carefully.
- Once both sides are crispy and cheese is melted, remove from heat, slice, and serve hot.
How to serve Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Serve hot so the cheese is gooey. Cut into two or four pieces for sharing. Add sliced tomatoes or crispy bacon on the side or inside for extra flavor. A small salad or pickles pair well.
How to store Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Cool to room temperature, then wrap in foil or place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crisp and melt the cheese again.
Tips to make Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
- Use medium heat to brown the rolls slowly without burning.
- Butter the rolls well for a golden crust.
- Press down gently while grilling to help the cheese melt.
- If you want more flavor, add a thin spread of garlic butter before grilling.
- For ideas to change the base, try flatbread or other breads from simple recipes like the cottage cheese flatbread idea above.
Variation
- Add ham or crispy bacon for a meaty version.
- Add sliced tomato or a leaf of basil for freshness.
- Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, Swiss, or a mix for different taste.
- Make mini sliders with one roll per sandwich for a party platter.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other cheese?
A: Yes. Cheddar, Swiss, or a mix work well. Choose a cheese that melts easily.
Q: Can I make these in an oven?
A: Yes. Place assembled rolls on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) until cheese melts and tops brown, about 8–10 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: You can freeze cooled sandwiches wrapped in foil. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Q: How do I avoid soggy bread?
A: Grill on medium heat and serve right away. Do not overfill with wet toppings.
Conclusion
For another baked slider idea, see Life by Leanna’s Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese Sliders for a baked approach. For a garlicky twist on the same idea, check The Sassy Barn’s Garlic Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls.

Hawaiian Roll Grilled Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional Additions
- to taste Sliced tomatoes For added freshness
- to taste Crispy bacon For a meaty version
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half without cutting all the way through.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and butter the insides of each roll.
Cooking
- Place the bottom halves of the rolls on the skillet and fill generously with cheese. Press down slightly with the top halves.
- Grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping carefully.
- Once both sides are crispy and cheese is melted, remove from heat, slice, and serve hot.
